Health Law

Does Common Compound Reduce Cerebral Palsy Risk?

Magnesium sulfate, more popularly known as Epsom salt, has been identified by researchers as a possible treatment for women at risk for preterm delivery (before 32 weeks gestation)—a known risk factor for cerebral palsy.

A study published in August in the New England Journal of Medicine compared the rate of cerebral palsy in babies whose mothers were given either magnesium sulfate or placebo. All of the mothers were at risk of delivering between 24 and 31 weeks of gestation.

The use of magnesium sulfate seemed to reduce the incidence of cerebral palsy by almost half. Despite the positive findings, experts tend to agree that more research needs to be done in this area.

Magnesium sulfate has previously been studied as a treatment for delaying early labor, though findings have not proven the compound effective for this use. However, it does seem to work for treating maternal high blood pressure.

Women who are at risk of preterm delivery should consult a physician to weigh their options.

Full post as published by Cerebral Palsy Law Blog on September 16, 2008 (boomark / email).